California Cracks Down on Illegal Rent Hikes After Devastating LA Fires

Tens of thousands displaced by wildfires face soaring rental costs as officials enforce price-gouging laws and extend protections.

Wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed over 12,000 structures, displacing tens of thousands of residents and intensifying the housing crisis.
California law prohibits rent increases above 10% during a state of emergency, with violators facing fines and potential jail time.
Reports of landlords exceeding the legal cap, with some rents doubling, have prompted Attorney General Rob Bonta to promise strict enforcement and prosecution.
Governor Gavin Newsom extended price-gouging protections for rental housing until March 8, while platforms like Airbnb and Zillow enforce compliance measures.
Displaced residents are turning to FEMA programs for temporary housing assistance, while major banks offer mortgage relief to affected homeowners.